Stacey Rosen, a seasoned cardiologist with an impressive background in women’s health, has been a prominent figure at American Heart Association meetings for the past 30 years. Holding key positions at Northwell Health and the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine, she has witnessed significant changes in both the AHA and the field of medicine, particularly in the recognition of the biological differences between men and women when it comes to heart health.
In a recent interview during the AHA’s 2025 Scientific Sessions, Rosen highlighted the shift towards a more holistic approach to patient care, focusing on prevention and longer, healthier lives. She emphasized the importance of including women in clinical trials and research studies, pointing out the historical lack of representation and the consequences it has had on women’s health outcomes.
Rosen’s passion for studying sex differences in heart disease stemmed from her early days in medicine when she noticed the disparities in treatment and diagnosis between men and women. She recognized the need for a more inclusive approach that takes into account the unique biological makeup of women and the importance of considering sex as a fundamental variable in research and clinical practice.
Despite efforts to include women in studies after the passing of the Reconciliation Act in 1993, Rosen noted that women still only constitute about 30% of research participants in cardiovascular research. She attributed this disparity to various factors, including the lack of women scientists in the field and the misconception that women are less likely to participate in trials.
Looking ahead, Rosen emphasized the need to rethink the way clinical trials are conducted, leveraging technology and innovative approaches to increase participation and improve outcomes for women. She stressed that addressing sex differences in medicine is not just a matter for cardiologists but a fundamental aspect of healthcare that should be integrated into all medical specialties.
In light of recent challenges surrounding grant applications and the use of certain terms like sex or disparities, Rosen remained optimistic about the scientific basis for studying sex differences, highlighting the importance of considering basic biological factors in research and clinical practice.
As she looks towards the future, Rosen sees an opportunity to make significant strides in women’s health, particularly in maternal health. By collaborating across different specialties and focusing on preventative care starting at a young age, she believes that the healthcare community can have a profound impact on improving outcomes for women and setting the stage for better heart health throughout their lives.
In conclusion, Rosen’s dedication to advancing women’s health and bridging the gap in cardiovascular research serves as a beacon of hope for the future of medicine. With a renewed focus on inclusivity, collaboration, and innovation, the healthcare industry has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach heart health and ultimately improve outcomes for all patients.
